Try a Little Kindness

By Ian Young • Volume 38, Number 8 • October 2017

“Don’t walk around the down and out/Lend a helping hand instead of doubt/and the kindness that you show every day/Will help someone along their way”- Glen Campbell April 22, 1936 – August 8, 2017 (Country music artist. The words are from the song “Try a Little Kindness.”)

Kindness can be the best pick-me-up ever and can be simple: a greeting, some assistance (like opening a door), or even a smile and a thank-you!

One act of kindness I personally witnessed was only a small thing, but to me it was big. I remember it to this day as it restored a lot of my faith in humanity.

I was at a chain grocery store. An elderly woman was getting her groceries checked out by the cashier. When it came to payment, she did not have sufficient funds on her card. Instead of making her feel awkward, the remarkable employee, in a gentle voice, just made suggestions like,“These peaches are pricy this time of year, maybe just take three” and other kind suggestions to fit her budget. I know from being employed in a grocery store years back, you can’t give things away.

Much to the chagrin of the other people in line who were verbally complaining, this employee took the time to not take away dignity, but rather to provide kindness!

Then came my turn at the till. She was polite, professional, and friendly. I realized I had just witnessed something great, an act of kindness! I quickly went home and contacted the head office to share the story and mentioned the employee should be recognized. They replied they do not often receive letters of praise, and they were delighted and promised to recognize the employee.

I still shop at the store. I no longer see that employee. She may have gotten employment elsewhere or moved, but I will never forget the feeling I felt, and how it empowered me to act in the same way: to be kind.

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Neighbourhood Views

Water is Life from Edmonton to Ottawa – The Water is Life mural that was painted at iHuman in September. The project was led by Isaac Murdoch, who partnered with Christi Belcourt to raise awareness of water issues. Belcourt was in Ottawa the same weekend where another mural was created.
Maigan van der Giessen

PARK(ing) Day 2017 – PARK(ing) Day took place on September 15. It is a worldwide movement to reclaim public spaces by turning parking stalls into temporary art installations. Edmonton’s event took place along 101 Avenue near 97 Street and featured a number of interactive installations. Paula E. Kirman

Boyle McCauley Pharmacy Celebrates Five Years – Boyle McCauley Pharmacy and Home Health Care celebrated its fifth anniversary on September 16 with a community barbecue. The business is located at 10817 95 Street. Paula E. Kirman

Annual EDLC BBQ – The 28th Annual Edmonton and District Labour Council’s BBQ for the Unemployed and Underemployed took place in Giovanni Caboto Park on September 4. Once again, the line for food extended throughout the park, as guests were served by volunteers from unions, as well as local politicians. Paula E. Kirman

PARK(ing) Day 2017 – ￼￼PARK(ing) Day took place on September 15. It is a worldwide movement to reclaim public spaces by turning parking stalls into temporary art installations. Edmonton’s event took place along 101 Avenue near 97 Street and featured a number of interactive installations. Paula E. Kirman

Boyle Street Block Parties – Four Community Gatherings were hosted by the City of Edmonton this summer at the future Kinistinâw Park at 96 Street between 102A and 103 Avenue in Boyle Street. Many Boyle Street residents attended the events throughout the summer, and participated in activities as well as had a bite to eat. Shannon Murray

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